Here’s whats catching our attention this week – stories on Africa’s rising satellite activity, the risks to cultural heritage posed by conflict, the power of inclusive curatorial practices, and why cultural institutions should not be overlooked in urban transformation.
1. Africa’s Satellite Ambitions (BBC)
A growing number of African countries, including Senegal, are launching satellites as the cost of space technology drops, empowering nations to pursue technological sovereignty and enhance telecommunications and earth observation capabilities.
2. The Threat to Cultural Heritage in Conflict Zones (The Art Newspaper)
From Sudan to Gaza and Lebanon, cultural sites and artifacts are at risk due to ongoing conflicts. Despite the destruction, communities are working to preserve and protect their heritage, affirming art and history as essential components of resilience and identity.
3. Inclusive Curatorial Practices as Acts of Belonging (The Art Newspaper)
Museums can be powerful spaces of connection and joy, but only if they take curatorial risks to challenge antiquated narratives and invite marginalized communities to see themselves reflected in collections.
The “Bilbao effect” highlights the transformative potential of culture in urban renewal, but success requires cultural institutions to be integrated into broader development strategies, not treated as an afterthought.
5. Protests in Museums Spark Stress and Safety Concerns (The Art Newspaper)
National museum directors in the UK call for an end to disruptive protests targeting artworks, citing the emotional toll on staff and visitors alike. The plea follows a series of high-profile demonstrations, raising questions about the balance between activism and cultural preservation.